Sudarshan Gopaladesikan, a former research assistant at Infosys in Bengaluru, has been appointed as the technical director for English Premier League side Newcastle United.the club, known for its significant financial backing through its ties with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), announced the appointment on its social media channels.

Gopaladesikan’s new role will involve leading the club’s football data operations. He will work closely with head coach Eddie Howe and his staff, as well as the performance, medical, analysis, methodology, and recruitment teams. His responsibilities will focus on integrating data-driven practices across all levels of the club’s sporting departments, including men’s, women’s, and academy teams.

His career in football analytics began at Portuguese giants Benfica, where he managed their data science program. More recently, in 2024, he was part of the Italian Serie A outfit Atalanta during their UEFA Europa League triumph.

Gopaladesikan’s appointment highlights a growing trend of Indian talent making significant contributions to European football. This includes individuals like Vinai Venkatesham, a